CAK
LAVERNE MINUTES OF A STUDY SESSION AND REGULAR MEETING
OF THE LA VERNE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, May 6, 2024
IN
ACTION MINUTES
"see items in italics"
STUDY SESSION - 5:30 p.m. - Meeting called to order at 5:34 p.m.
ROLL CALL Council Member Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita, Council Member Rick Crosby, Council Member Wendy Lau, Mayor Pro Tem Steve F. Johnson and Mayor Tim Hepburn.
Council Members present: Crosby, Lau, Kashifalghita, Johnson and Hepburn.
Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Ken Domer, Assistant City Manager JR Ranells and City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow.
STUDY SESSION AGENDA
The City Council met in a Study Session for the following:
Budget - City staff presented a preliminary overview of the proposed operating budget and capital improvement plan for fiscal year 2024/25, emphasizing budget education related to funding sources and other elements of the budget process.
The complete budget study session can be found on the City website at www.cityoflaverne.org/live.
City Manager Domer called Accountant Jesus Jaimes forward to present the preliminary budget for 2024-2025. Senior Accountant Isabella Guzman continued the presentation with information on the General Fund Reserves and Personnel requests and vacancies. Public Works Director Meg McWade then spoke on the Capital Improvement Program.
Mayor Hepburn recessed the study session.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 6:30 p.m. - The Regular Meeting was called to order at 6:38 p.m.
Mayor Hepburn read the rules of decorum.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE by Richard "Dick" Anderson, Sergeant US Army Council Member Kashifalghita, on behalf of the City Council, presented Dick Anderson with a Pride of La Verne Certificate of Recognition thanking him for his service to our country.
City Manager Domer conducted roll call.
ROLL CALL
Council Member Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita, Council Member Rick Crosby, Council Member Wendy Lau, Mayor Pro Tem Steven F. Johnson, and Mayor Tim Hepburn.
Council Members present: Crosby, Lau, Kashifalghita, Johnson and Hepburn
Absent: None
Advisory Staff Present: City Manager Ken Domer, Assistant City Manager JR Ranells, and City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow.
1. PRESENTATIONS - There are five presentations, the first is the YAC Student Representatives.
The purpose of the Youth and Family Action Committee is to encourage, coordinate and facilitate the involvement of citizens and community organizations in combating the problems of substance abuse, gang activity, and community violence. This past year, YFAC has had the participation of three Bonita High School Student Representatives attending monthly meetings and providing invaluable contributions to help at risk youth. The Student Representatives for the past school year have been Rilee Crosby, Berlyne Stillions, and Nathan Kwan.
Mayor Hepburn called forward: Rilee, Berlyne, and Nathan to receive a Pride of La Verne Certificate and an In-N- Out gift card.
The second presentation is to the Older Americans Month Proclamation May is Older Americans Month, a time for us to recognize and honor our older adults and their immense influence on every facet of American society. countless hours of service to the community.
Mayor Hepburn called forward Senior Advisory Committee Members, Terry, Ed, and Betty to present the proclamation.
The third presentation is to the Military Appreciation Month Proclamation.
National Military Appreciation Month, also known as Military Appreciation Month, is a month-long observance in the United States, dedicated to people who are currently serving in the United States military.
Mayor Hepburn called forward, VWF Post 12034 Commander Phil Ramirez and group, and presented them with the proclamation.
The fourth presentation is on the Veterans memorial Statues.
Resident Dan Harden presented his proposal to Council regarding adding statues to the Veterans Memorial. Presentation can be found on the city website at www.citvoflaverne.org.
The final presentation from the CA Department of Insurance to discuss the FAIR Insurance Plan was not held as the representative did not show.
Pag: 219
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
(Any person who wishes to make a brief announcement of a future community event that is open to the public may do so at thistime.)
Announcements were received from:
George May, La Verne Librarian on upcoming Library programs.
Jill Dolan, La Verne Chamber of Commerce announced the Teacher of the year recipients, and the scholarships that were awarded.
Josh from Hillcrest announced the Love La Verne Day.
Sherry Best, La Verne Historical Society President announced the upcoming Historical Society events.
Community Risk Reduction Specialist Lonnie Shipman reminded everyone to pay close attention to your Wildfire Preparedness, and shared various fire prevention resources.
Resident Danita Beauchamp, on the Probation Commission meeting.
Yvonne Gallegos, Vice Chair of the Cultural Awareness and Social Inclusion Committee, announced the meeting date and time.
Resident Rick Bowen, on the Holocaust Remembrance and the LV3C meeting on April 25th.
Council Announcements: Mayor Hepburn announced the LA County Fair is open. This Friday is La Verne Day at the Fair, tickets can be purchased online fur $1.00, parking is available online also.
Council Member Lau reminded everyone of the Friends of the 4i' of July Committee which organizes the event and seeks sponsorships, if you're interested in donating, volunteering or sitting on the Committee please reach out. The other Council Members were challenged to lead the charge on sponsorships, several monetary commitments were made.
CONSENT CALENDAR
(All items on the Consent Calendar are routine and will be enacted by one motion unless a member of the City Council or member of the audience requests separate discussion.) It was moved by Crosby, seconded by Johnson, and approved by a vote of 5-0.
6. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES of the regular City Council meeting of April 15, 2024.
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve the minutes. Approved
7. REGISTER OF AUDITED DEMANDS for the following dates and amounts:
1. $$2,626,281.56, dated April 10, 2024
2. $231,335.50, dated April 16, 2024
3. $1,877,732.06, dated April 25, 2024
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve the Register of Audited Demands.
Approved
8. Replacement Utility Vehicle For Fire Department - The Fire Department operates utility vehicles to support several departmental functions, including deploying the Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV). The Department currently utilizes a 2014 Ford F-150 utility vehicle that is not suited or equipped for towing the UTV, trailer, and rescue equipment long range and out of local area assignments. The Fleet Division requests the authorization to purchase a replacement vehicle suited for this role.
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Authorize the Fleet Division to issue a purchase order to Fontana Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) to purchase a 2024¾ ton Ram Truck to replace the current F150. This purchase would be a competitive award to Fontana CDJR in the amount of $60,853.52 based on an informal bid process conducted by the department.
2. Authorize appropriations be added to the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Adopted Budget in the amount of $45,000 from the Equipment Fund (Fund 624) reserves and $35,000 from the Community Facilities District (CFD) 90-1 Fund from the Fire Department's restricted balance for the purchase of the unit and the up-fitting.
Up-fitting is estimated at $19,146.48 for code 3 lighting and other outfitting components, for a total vehicle cost of $80,000.
Both recommendations above were Approved.
9. Award of Contract For Las Flores Park Modular Restroom Improvement Project - This action will appropriate funding and award a construction contract to Grbcon, Inc. in the amount of $982,822.50 for the Las Flores Park Modular Restroom Improvement Project.
The project will be funded in part from a financial contribution from Assembly Member Chris Holden's office as a component of a suite of projects that have been funded and are underway at the park.
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Award a public works construction contract to Grbcon, Inc., the lowest, most responsible bidder, in the amount of $982,822.50 for the Las Flores Park Modular Restroom Improvement Project (Proj. No. PK2303);
2. Authorize staff to issue change orders not exceeding 10% of the construction budget for a total possible construction cost of $1,081, 105.00; and
3.Adopt a Resolution appropriating $480,000 from a grant from California Natural Resources Agency (Assembly Member Chris Holden's) Park Improvement Funds to supplement the adopted Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget and re-allocate with the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget, $280,000 from the previously budgeted Park Dwelling funds for the Las Flores Modular Restroom Improvement Project, modifying the total budget for the project to be $1,200, 000.
All recommendations above were Approved.
PUBLIC HEARING
10. Resolution of Intention to Approve an Amendment to the Contract between the Board of Administration of the California Public Employees' Retirement System and the City Council of the City of La Verne - Resolution of Intention to approve an amendment to the contract between the board of administration of the California Public Employees' Retirement System and the City Council of the City of La Verne pursuant to California Government Code 20516 to include cost-share of the employers cost by the employees within select classic groups; and Introduction of an Ordinance Authorizing an Amendment to the Contract Between the City Public Resolution of Intention to Approve an Amendment to the Contract between
Pig: 4|9
Recommendation: That the City Council:
1. Based Adopt a Resolution titled, "A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO
APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BOARD
OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES'
RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LA VERNE PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE 20516"
2. Introduce By Title Only And Waive Further Reading Of Ordinance No. 24-XX, "An Ordinance Authorizing An Amendment To The Contract Between The City Council of La Verne And The Board Of Administration of the California Public Employees' Retirement System."
City Manager Domer called Finance Director Lopez forward to report on this item. After reviewing the recommendations above, if approved the next step is to hold a secret ballot where each employee impacted will have the opportunity to vote. Depending on the outcome we will move forward with the filing of the paperwork with CaPERS, and after waiting the required 20 days bring the ordinance back for final adoption.
Council Comments: Mayor Hepburn acknowledged the generosity of the employees to help with this cost sharing of the CalPERS Retirement Program.
Council Member Crosby agreed, the price of CalPERS just keeps going up.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: There was none.
Mayor Hepburn called for a motion, it was moved by Johnson and seconded by Kashifalghita and approved 5-0.
11. Resolution amending the 2024-25 Comprehensive Fee Schedule for the Implementation of a 2% Technology Fee on all Building Permits to cover permit software licensing, plan review software licensing, and additional technology costs associated with permitting, plan review, and inspections - The City's Comprehensive Fee Schedule, as established by Resolution 24-22, is reviewed each year in conjunction with the annual budget process. Although the Community Development Department had identified an additional fee for the online building permit hosting system when the 2024-25 Comprehensive Fee Schedule was adopted, they noted that the Building Industry Association of Southern California requested notification which had not been completed timely. This proposed Resolution provides for the amendment to the recently adopted 2024-25 Comprehensive Fee Schedule to include the added fee with the desired notification provided
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt "A resolution of the City Council of the City of La Verne, California, amending the 2024-25 comprehensive fee schedule for the implementation of 2% technology fee on all building permits to cover permit software licensing, plan review software licensing, and additional technology costs associated with permitting, plan review, and inspections
City Manager Domer called Senior Management Analyst Ellie Luo forward to report on this item. The details of the item and recommendation were summarized for Council.
City Manager Domer clarified the additional charge was to help us recoup the actual costs for services, and the permit software allows for online permitting, which was previously covered by a grant that's expired. The 2% covers the cost of our system and is less than what other similar
cities charge.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: There was none.
Mayor Hepburn called for a motion, it was moved by Crosby and seconded by Lau and approved
OTHER MATTERS
12. Award of Contract for Psychological Evaluation Services for Concealed Carry Applicants The La Verne Police Department (LVPD) sought proposals from qualified psychological evaluation service providers to conduct comprehensive psychological assessments of applicants for Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permits. The requirements for providing services include the cost to the applicant, the administration of standardized psychological tests, personal interviews, and the preparation of evaluation reports to assist the LVPD in determining the applicants for carrying concealed weapons.
Recommendation: That City Council approve an agreement with Seal Beach Counseling for Psychological Evaluation Services for Concealed Carry Applicants.
City Manager Domer called forward LT. Chris Dransfeldt to report on the CCW contract, who stated there have been some changes in the law regarding the CCW psychological evaluations as of January 1, 2024, Senate Bill 2 was enacted which changed the fees and requirements. Due to this change the Police Department posted a request for proposal to vendors providing psychological evaluations. Three qualified proposals were received, with Seal Beach Counseling Services having the advantage of offering the services via Telehealth HIPAA compliant and being less cost to the applicant.
Council discussion: Council discussed the various aspects of the contract, the fees and the process.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: Comments were received from the following:
Danita Beauchamp.
Council comments: Mayor Pro Tem Johnson felt there was merit for the process.
Council Member Crosby stated there was a benefit in keeping the CCW permit process and the $150 per person, it's a benefit for the City and the yearly average of 40 people is not an exorbitant amount.
Council Member Lau stated there is merit in the psychology exam, and if we previously agreed to pay the $150, then we should continue to do so moving forward.
Council Member Kashifalghita believes it's a good thing to get people who want to carry a firearm, then they need to follow the rules. If we the city can pay for it, then the city does pay for it.
Mayor Hepburn supports Police Chief Gonzalez on the psychological testing. We need to do it, it's a background check, it's extremely important. I don't feel that the City Should pay for it, there are many other things in our City budget right now that require funding. If a person wants to get a CCW they should pay for it.
Mayor Hepburn called for a motion, it was moved by Crosby and seconded by Johnson and approved with a vote of 3-2, Hepburn and Lau dissenting to approve the provider but with the City picking up the $155 fee per applicant.
The City Council, as part of general direction, stated that if the City's Fee Resolution needed to be amended due to this action that staff should bring it back at the next meeting. (It has been determined that the Fee Resolution does not need to be amended.)
13.Civic Center and Durward Way Parking Review and Proposed Restrictions - Request for a three (3) hour parking zone on Durward Way.
Recommendation: That the City Council adopt a resolution titled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE_CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA VERNE, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING CERTAIN PARKING RESTRICTIONS ON DURWARD WAY DURING SCHOOL HOURS," per La Verne Municipal Code Section 10.40.140 and authorizing the City Manager, in collaboration with the.
City Manager Domer called Captain Jason Prows forward to report on the proposed parking restrictions on Durward Way. A study was conducted for two weeks during the noursbte on Durward Way. Recommendations from the Police Chief and Pable Work Director are to implement a time limit zone.
Council discussion: Council discussed the pros and cons of limiting the parking on Durward Way.
Mayor Hepburn called for public comment: There was none.
Council comments: Council Member Kashifalghita wanted to know the timeframe to move the Foothill Transit bus stop location, to gain additional parking spots.
Mader tour abe dating at discus in t partial the School District, he aged the Council Member Lau wanted to reach out to the School District regarding additional parking in the high school lot and reach out to Foothill Transit about not parking there and obstructing things.
City Manager Domer after hearing Council comments and concerns, the city hall lot will be posted and enforced. Then over the summer additional data can be collected with normal activities and see how full the parking lot is.
Mayor Hepburn asked Community Services Director Duran for clarification on the timing of classes.
Community Services Director Duran stated the biggest problem right now is with the Senior Programs, during the day, as most of those programs are from 8:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.
The latest class is Bingo on Wednesdays until 4:30 p.m. Staff has received numerous complaints from our Seniors. Wednesdays are also the excursion days, therefore, approximately 40 additional cars need parking spaces.
Mayor called for a motion, it was moved by Lau and seconded by Johnson and approved
PUBLIC COMMENI
(Below are only partial public comments, please visit the City's website to view the archived Council meeting.)
Mayor Hepburn called for public comments: Comments were received from the following: Barbara Smythe, Sherry Shaw, Bill Nolan, Sherry Best and Danita Beauchamp
One public comment was received via email from Barbara Smythe
COUNCIL COMMENTS AND CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Mayor Hepburn called for Council comments:
Council Member Lau wanted to recognize May is Asian American Pacific Islander month and Mental Health Awareness month. Anyone looking for resources with respect to mental health visit Tri-City's website. Also, the 4ih of July Committee is looking for sponsorships. Chief Gonzalez was officially sworn in as our Chief on April 18'h, it was a really good event. Both Mayor Pro Tem Johnson and Mayor Hepburn did a nice job with their speeches honoring Sam. The Fair is open, La Verne Day at the Fair is on Friday, please do come it generates a lot of revenue for our city.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson is disappointed the FAIR Plan didn't actually show up. This is a very frustrating process, it's a frustrating company to deal with just because of the volume that they have. I'm glad to hear the City is doing the Firewise Program, it'll help every resident if the entire City is classified as the fire safe zone.
Council Member Crosby thanked the residents for their participation, the proclamations really highlight the finer things about our City and is looking forward to hearing more about the Veterans Memorial Statues. The Veteran Resources are available on Mondays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Council Member Kashifalghita participated in the LVPD Police Golf Tournament it vas an amazing time. Great opportunity and great time to support our law enforcemen. brothers and sisters that serve our City, also participated in the San Dimas Education Foundation Golf Tournament and presented recognition letters to five Eagle Scouts.
Luke Valentine, Jack Douglas, Ryan Douglas, Quinn Guerrero and Sergio Santamaria, Congratulations gentlemen, job well done. The City is getting a Tesla Supercharger station at Mister D's.
Mayor Hepburn wished everyone a Happy Mother's Day this Sunday. Wine walk was an absolute success, the event sold out. Memorial Day is coming up, take care of each other. We have a birthday this Friday, Chief Sam Gonzalez. Everyone sang happy birthday.
Mayor Hepburn asked City Attorney Hall Barlow to read the Closed Session items for the record.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Council will meet in Closed Session for the following:
1. Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(b): (One case)
2. California Pistol and Rifle Association, Inc., et al. v Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, et al., United States District Court for the Central District of California Case No. 2:23-CV-10169-SPG-ADSx pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9: (One case) The meeting was adjourned at 9:58 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Watera Finity
Debra Fritz
Deputy City Clerk